As you are probably aware by now, Microsoft is asking millions of web users across Europe if they would like to switch to a different web browser from another company or stay with Microsoft’s Internet Explorer, as part of its settlement with the European Commission.
The ‘browser ballot’ is a move by Microsoft to make it easier for users to pick an alternative browser should they wish, other than the company’s own offering – Internet Explorer, which is pre-installed on all Windows PC’s and apparently has just over 45% of the market share. Windows PC users will see a ‘ballot box’ via a Windows Update Service when they switch their computer, allowing them to pick which web browser they want to use to access the internet.
Microsoft Browser Ballot Screen
As well as opting to stay with Internet Explorer, you will also be presented with the other top four web browers; Firefox, Safari, Opera and Chrome. The top five browsers of twelve in total will be presented in a random order and users will be able to click a button to install whichever browser they want and to find out more information.
Microsoft Browser Choices Screen
The pop up window will keep re-appearing until you have selected your preferrred internet browser.
We recommend that you stay with Internet Explorer especially if you are running certain applications which require this browser, but if you do choose to opt for another browser, Firefox and Chrome are our other favourites. It is recommended that you do not run more than 2 browers as this could affect the performance of your PC/Laptop.
